Differences And Similarities Between The Rent Of A Condo And Renting An Apartment

Because the housing market is in one of the biggest slumps in American history, more people are looking to rent a condo or are simply renting an apartment. The difficulty for many is understanding what the differences are between the two as well as what the benefits and downfalls of condo rentals are. These things will play heavily on what your final decision will be.

How Apartments And Condo Rentals Are The Same

One of the first things people notice when deciding whether to rent a condo or an apartment is that both properties are set up the same way with several units in one building. You don't have to be concerned about purchasing outdoor maintenance equipment like lawn mowers, sprinklers, and edge trimmers.

Some units might also include things such as TV services, utilities, or cleaning services in addition to great scenery outside your window. They both can have rules outlining what you can have or do in your space like painting or smoking. On the other hand, once your lease is up, you can move without trying to sell it in the poor quality market.

The Benefits Condos Have Over Renting An apartment

You will have several added conveniences if you choose to rent a condo. Otherwise, you would need special, costly memberships to various organizations throughout the community. These amenities could include things such as saunas, Jacuzzis, or pools as well as sports grounds like golf, tennis, or entertainment spaces.

Memberships or large discounts for gym memberships, spas, or golf and country clubs are sometimes included with your monthly condo rent. There are other lavish benefits including live security rather than just a locked door and underground parking. Boards or associations who run condominium groups also often hold social gatherings on special occasions. To finance the extras, any of the costs incurred by the building as a whole are divided equally among tenants including maintenance and expenses.

Condos Have Down Sides

Because condo rentals have so many benefits and luxuries that come with them, they also carry a larger price tag each month. The added charges are paid on a regular basis in order to cover maintenance, utilities, and costs incurred by the building itself and are similar to a rent payment.

The condo board or association also has rules that are independent from the contract signed with your landlord. For those who break these rules, there might be fines as punishment. These groups often require you to put in a certain number of volunteer hours each year. This, however, will depend on the contract you have with the property manager since these hours are technically the owner's responsibility.

When choosing between renting an apartment and a condo rental, the answer should be based on what you are comfortable paying and what you would like to have. For those who do decide to rent a condo, you can enjoy luxurious living with a variety of amenities to choose from. For those who prefer an apartment, there are still many added benefits without additional, large fees.

About the Author

Christine O'Kelly writes for Beal Properties, LLC. Whether it is renting an apartment or helping others to rent a condo in the Chicago area, Beal Properties has more than 80 years experience.